Singapore reflections: The New Colombo Plan in action By Carlin Lee
Personal background Personal experience living in South East Asia; Life-long experience supporting people living with a disability; Currently employed by DCSI as a Developmental Educator; Passionate about supporting the development of quality professionals to work with individuals living with a disability.
The New Colombo Plan Initiative of the Australian Government designed to develop further understanding of the Indo-Pacific, to deepen existing relationships and to develop a regionally aware workforce for the future.
Industry Mentor Scholarship Opportunity to mentor BDDE students in a completely new and complex environment; Unique experience working alongside colleagues living and working in Singapore, providing a different perspective; Promoting the role and value of Developmental Education to a range of agencies and ministry officials.
St Andrew’s Autism Centre
St Andrew’s Autism Centre St Andrew’s Autism School (7 – 18 yr olds); Day Activity Centre (19yrs and over); Parent/family support including pastoral care, counselling, parent support and networking; and Currently planning a new facility that is intended to include an additional Day Activity Centre and accommodation for individuals living with ASD.
St Andrew’s Autism Centre – Day Activity Centre Approximately 65 adults living with ASD attend daily sessions; Staffing ratios approximately 1:3; Purpose built centre; Opportunities to develop vocational and independent living skills.
Mentoring BDDE students Fantastic group of students full of ideas, enthusiasm and a desire to make a difference; Opportunity to encourage and enhance learning for students, as well as assist students to feel empowered in their circumstances; Unexpected challenges, but these provided learning opportunities to all involved.
Promoting Developmental Education to the international arena Informal discussions with St Andrew’s management; Informal conversations and role modelling for St Andrew’s staff; Presentation to St Andrew’s staff about the role of the DE, the benefits and the rewards; Presentation and consultation with a variety of agencies and Ministry officials.
The future… Singapore appears to be preparing to move into the next phase of their development of meaningful programs and support services for individuals living with a disability; DE profile raised through the opportunities provided by the New Colombo Plan grant; Opportunities for new DE’s to be trained and for experienced DE’s to offer expertise to shape the future…
Comments or Questions